Post by deadbat on Nov 5, 2022 21:24:27 GMT
Pod links and report below
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-reaction-22-23-burnley-home
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tufty-club-reaction-22-23-burnley-home/id1508158343?i=1000585188037
open.spotify.com/episode/31tMmgLwHMBa43CTEN6JWG?si=11a271ca4652436b
---
The Blades made it three wins from three and are right back in touch at the top of the league as they blew away the leaders Burnley in the lunchtime Sky game at the Lane. United somehow trailed at the half despite more than matching the high-flying Clarets but Ndiaye’s goal was checked by two goals from the visitors who profited from some calamitous defending from United’s left-hand side with Jack Robinson and Enda Stevens having absolute nightmare performances. After the break it was a different story as United dominated the game and it was one way traffic as in general play and in particular set pieces, the Blades threatened almost with every attack. Goals from McBurnie (x2), Robinson and Ahmedhodzic saw United win at a canter and send a real statement with the margin of victory and performance.
Heckingbottom made two changes with Stevens, Ahmedhodzic and McBurnie in for Sharp, Basham and Khadra. Osborn was to operate in midfield. Doyle was still not fit but Basham was able to at least take his place on the bench joined by youngsters Arblaster and Brooks. Burnley on the back of two stoppage time winners would have been in confident mood after a long unbeaten run of 17 games without a defeat. They were without the suspended Brownhill and the injured Rodriguez. Tella playing a lone striker role supported by Zaroury and Manuel Benson. Burnley still had plenty of experience and quality in their starters and in reserve.
The game started in treacherous conditions as the rain lashed down onto the pitch that still had the feint lines showing from last Saturday’s Rugby League World Cup on the surface. Benson showed quick feet early to get away from Stevens in a sign of things to come from the tricky winger. United were moving it around nicely with Norwood at the heart of everything and won an early corner and long throw that saw Muric struggle with the high ball. McBurnie was winning his battles and the Blades had started the better side but Benson curled an effort wide on the break. Maatsen conceded a free kick which was swung in from Norwood and McBurnie flicked an effort that Muric and a defender somehow scrambled behind for another corner.
McBurnie had another effort over as Robinson’s throws continued to cause problems for Burnley, who used to deal with situations well but had a relatively small side and with the big keeper struggling to command, United looked a real threat from such situations. Burnley the other way were getting the ball to Benson at every opportunity. One such break saw Vitinho have a shot blocked for a corner after Robinson headed away when a fellow defender was better places to clear. From the delivery it was not cleared properly again by Robinson who compounded his double error by trying to block the MANUEL shot and only diverted it into the net past Fotheringham. It was a cruel blow after United had been the better side but was an avoidable goal from the home side.
United won a corner in response and the McBurnie had a header blocked after Fleck’s cross. Norwood was still looking to find gaps and Osborn was busy but it was the strong hold up from McBurnie that was the main threat for the Blades. Burnley nearly got a second as a corner saw Harwood Bellis with a clear header that he headed over with the marking non-existent. Manuel then cut in and shot over as Stevens struggles continued, as evidenced soon after when he was cautioned for bringing down the dangerous winger.
United were well in the game and Norwood’s clever passing saw both Osborn and Baldock get in dangerous areas before McBurnie had another effort blocked. United won a corner when the ball ricocheted off Baldock and a defender and the away side felt that it came off the United man but with the assistant unsighted and the referee some way from the action, the award went to the home side. From the delivery, McBurnie met it with a superb header back across and Ndiaye managed to contort his body to turn it home back across the keeper. The in-form striker celebrated his 9th goal of the season as United were deservedly back on level terms.
Burnley were still looking a huge threat down the right-hand side and Manuel’s trickery saw Zaroury in and his shot had to be saved from Fotheringham. Soon after Burnley almost regained the lead as the ball was not cleared and Maatsen hit a powerful shot that clipped the top of the bar and went over. United had played well but were showing real defiencies defensively and the left side continued to be an issue with Manuel destroying Stevens every time he got the ball. United were causing problems the other way and Egan had a header off target before some lovely football down the right saw Baldock’s cross come over and Stevens fired a cross shot that McBurnie flicked goalward but the ball was blocked on the line. The ball was scrambled clear and United rued the chance to lead and this was felt even more when the Blades went behind after more dreadful defending. Whilst Stevens had really struggled in a game that was touch to watch the great servant have such a torrid time, Robinson’s mistakes had showed up even more and this was the case even more so when he made a total rick just before half time.
The ball came to the experienced left sided defender and he slipped but then recovered but foolishly tried to come inside his man and MANUEL robbed him and was in on goal. The finish was delivered with ease as he curled it into the far corner and the league leaders led again. Robinson looked to both the skies and the floor in an extremely difficult afternoon for the defender. His part in both goals was crucial to the lead Burnley took into the break. It had been an excellent game so far with both teams dangerous in attack in an open contest and United would have felt unjust to be behind but defensive mistakes once again were their undoing. The Blades have now conceded 7 goals in the last three games at home and simply need to cut out such basic mistakes.
The home side did not make any changes but came out in determined mood. A cross from Robinson saw Ahmedhodzic head wide and United seemed determined to put Burnley under pressure. It was high intensity stuff and balls were coming forward and into the box at a rapid rate. It was not long before they were level. Another centre came in from the left-hand side and Ahmedhodzic headed across where MCBURNIE was waiting to beat the offside trap and sprang to dive and head home. It was a well-made and finished goal and United were back in it.
The Kop were now expectant and United were in the mood. Norwood was controlling midfield and Baldock and Ahmedhodzic were well forward and the visitors were struggling to hold the Blades back. McBurnie and Ndiaye’s link up was excellent and Cullen had to resort to foul play and was booked before a cross was pushed over by the shaky Muric on goal. The corner came in and McBurnie’s header was pushed behind as the pressure ramped up. McBurnie won another header before Ndiaye’s flicked finish was ruled offside; rightly so. Ahmedhodzic tried a spectacular overhead kick that was not far wide soon after this. It was all United at this point and Manuel’s service had been nullified as Burnley could not force any kind of play the other way and were struggling to stay in the game. Ndiaye was starting to really come to the fore and some superb hold up and running nearly led to a chance.
Gudmundsson came on for Bastien but it did not change the flow of the game. United won three corners in a row and Burnley could not get out as the balls kept coming in and Muric and his defence could not properly clear the ball. From the third delivery on 64 minutes, Fleck’s dangerous outswinger was powered by Ahmedhodzic onto the bar and Egan and Stevens tried to force the rebound home before ROBINSON somehow looped it into the far corner. It was a remarkable turnaround for the villain of the piece first half as he ran to the corner of the Kop/South Stand to dive in jubilation surrounded by his teammates. After such a difficult half, huge credit to the defender for contributing such a big moment in the game in United’s favour.
Burnley were not able to respond at all although they had one break where Osborn made a timely break before United kept coming. Ndiaye was showing the strength and body control and came out of a tight spot and came into the centre of the area and fed McBurnie who had a fantastic chance to score but his effort was too close to Muric who made the save from point blank range. From the corner, Burnley could not cope with the physical threat and Ahmedhodzic won it and superbly headed goalward but Muric who had been having a difficult afternoon, sprang up and made the flicked save. The corner came in and McBurnie met the latest pin point delivery and Muric made another save, although this was more routine but still had to push behind.
The pressure told then and the fourth goal came from the next set play. The ball came in and was not cleared again and after Osborn’s shot was blocked, the ball dropped to AHMEDHODZIC who beat the offside trap and used a clever Cryuff turn to put him facing the goal and smashed in a superb finish. The defender has shown his eye for a goal and powerful shooting this season and now has four goals for the season. Basham came on for Stevens as Osborn went to left wing back and United now had complete control of the game in a remarkable turnaround and they scored their fifth goal, and fourth in 24 minutes.
This was all about Norwood’s exquisite passing and vision as the ball round the back of the full back Maatsen saw Baldock ghost in and beat the offside trap (it was a marginal call) and he was in on goal. Muric made the block from close range but MCBURNIE was on hand to easily convert the rebound to spark more wild scenes around Bramall Lane. United were simply battering the league leaders who could not stop the rampant home side.
Ndiaye opened up his can of party tricks with some lovely footwork down the left and then the right leading to a foul from Tella and after the two players squared up as Ndiaye saw the funny side of his opponents’ frustrations. Tella and McBurnie were both booked for the pushing and shoving that ensued. Tella, Zaroury and Manuel came off for Dervisoglu, Taylor and Barnes as it seemed Kompany maybe had thrown up the white flag with just over 10 minutes to play.
Cork was booked as Norwood continued to run the show in the middle of the field and Ndiaye continued to show his wonderful range of skills complimented by the intelligent centre forward play of his partner, McBurnie who got q standing ovation when Sharp replaced him on 82 minutes.
It had been a dominating second half from United and Norwood and Ndiaye had efforts blocked before Burnley finally had an effort on goal in the second half as Harwood Bellis header was pushed away by Foderingham and Fleck cleared high into the upper tier to make sure Burnley could not convert the rebound.
Vitinho and Cullen then had efforts blocked but it all seemed quite academic at this stage. Arblaster and Brooks replaced Baldock and Fleck but United were almost in exhibition mode at this stage. Ndiaye continued to weave his magic and the two youngsters got in on the action in the final minutes of stoppage time but the extra 6 minutes were mostly played out in Burnley’s half with Basham and Ahmehodzic continuing to be well forward and the Blades fans asking for a 6th goal. It did not come but it mattered little as the side were given a standing ovation as they saluted four side of the Lane after a superb victory.
United – Wow. We certainly are being entertained recently at the Lane and it is never boring! Maybe defensively we should be concerned about how many goals/chances we give away at home but we always look like scoring and being dangerous the other way. It was such an open game again today with lots going on and it seemed like you could never take your eyes off the game at all. There were always things happening! It was odd as even though we trailed at half time, I felt we were really good for a lot of it and just the issues down the left and stupid mistakes that cost us. Burnley did look dangerous but felt we played the better stuff and actually started better, unlucky to go behind, got level and then should have scored to lead before another Robinson howler put them in front. It was so frustrating really as we had been as good, if not better. The defensive issues were still a factor and meant all the good play going the other way was wasted. It was hard to watch Enda struggle to much and with Robinson’s errors aplenty throw in, this was a huge weakness Burnley exploited with Benson superb and the best player seen down at the Lane this season.
Huge credit for United for the spirit, determination, tempo and football we played 2nd half. We came out determined to take the game to the leaders and we were superb. Yes, a lot of set plays and corners caused issues but we played some good football. It was high tempo stuff that was positive in every aspect. Norwood at the heart of it and the front two superb. So many others played well with Anel and Baldock always threats down that side too. It seemed like it was attack after attack and Burnley could not hold us back. A poor keeper and centre halves that could not cope at all – we looked like we may score very time we had it and we kept coming and coming. It was waves of attack with so many men forward and in the box. Once we got level it seemed like they could not hold us back – we got in front from a scrapy goal but then could have had 2 or 3 more as we missed more chances and the calamitous Muric actually saved something! We finally got the 4th and the 5th and then strolled to the victory in the end. It was absolutely relentless stuff from United who put in a superb performance and Burnley only had a few efforts right at the death as they simply were destroyed after the break. They may have been/are the best team in the league but the Blades showed up lots of weaknesses that others teams will have seen too and proves they may not run away with things like many felt. United showed also that if we play like that and can get the likes of Berge, RND, Bogle and Doyle back to add to the excellent displays of others we saw today, we can get back to that early season form. Today was the best we played (2nd half at least) since before the break and looked a powerful, hungry and a really good side. It was maybe not all superb football and set plays were a huge asset but we did what we needed to in completely over powering a side that used to rely on such physical strengths in these situations. A very small and weak side were just not able to cope.
5-2 in the end was about right and the stats maybe skewed on possession but the efforts 28-14 with 12 to 4 on goal and corners 10 to 6 show how much of the dangerous play we had. We had 16 shots to 2 second half and completely dominated them.
A lot will be made of the corners and we had so many efforts from these but a lot of the set plays we won came from good play – they could not live with McBurnie and Ndiaye whose link play, hard work and skill was such a threat. Norwood was excellent all game and Baldock and Anel stepped things up after the half. Even Robinson improved hugely and I just felt we on most battles after the break, after it had been quite even first half, although we were unfortunate to be behind. For the first time for a while, our intensity and desire were much better than the opponent and we won first and second balls. It was high tempo pressure but good stuff/skill too. I am annoyed a lot are just making it about them struggling with the corners/high balls as it was more that that for me. I loved the way we mixed it up and were front foot. We kept creating but did not take our foot off the pedal and even at 2-2, 3-2 and then 4-2 kept going. They had no answer.
If we play like that second half and can find that tempo and desire added to the football and cut out the stupid errors, we look a very good side at this level. We put the leaders to the sword. Yes, they had a few out but we had many more out and it is a salivating prospect to think if we can get Berge, RND, Bogle, Brewster, Lowe and Doyle back to the squad, we will look very powerful. We have had some lethargic and scrappy showings, even when we have got points, since the break but today was like Blackburn, Reading and some of the games when we looked so powerful earlier in the season. Great to see and us back to our best. We have showed in the last week, we can win different ways. It is a hard division and do not want to get carried away. You can see your side do that today and lose to a Rotherham or a Cardiff but I would hope we can back it up with two more strong results and performances and get the break right up there. We then can get some of the aforementioned players back.
For now, just want to enjoy a great performance, comeback and day where the fans and players were united, the team played well. We had excitement, goals, mistakes (both ways) and a superb comeback where United played superbly second half to beat what was/is the best side in the league and by some distance. What going to the Lane is all about.
Ratings:
Foderingham 7/10 – No chance with the opener as it deflected in and made one other decent save. He was fine apart from that as a few shots went over/wide but then the second he was badly exposed. After the break, had little to do until the end really when he made one smart save and took a diving cross. You realise the difference between him and the Burnley keeper (and Davies for us). Having a solid to good keeper who can command and not make mistakes makes a big difference.
Baldock 8/10 – First half got in some good areas going forward with good control and some ok passes across mixed with a few not for the intended target. Defensively he lost his man a bit but most of the danger came down the left. After the break felt he was inspired and was superb. He got up and down and was so energetic. He was involved in numerous attacks and then his run set up the fifth. He often does bring Norwood’s balls down really well but then he panics but today he was ok in the final bit although will feel he should have scored. His energy levels were superb and he gives everything for the shirt. Leaves everything on the pitch.
Stevens 3.5/10 – Sad to see first half. Yes, he was against a really good player but it was hard to watch a fantastic servant for us look so far off it. Maybe he is rusty and without action but he could not run, his touch was poor and he was miles off his man. The early booking did not help but it was a huge struggle. Not sure Robinson and Fleck helped much either but they knew he was the big weak link. So many attacks came down his side. He just looked a player on his last legs. He did a few ok things going forward, one good cross and shot blocked near half time but his head was down and knew it was a struggle. Did a bit better 2nd half as we attacked more and they did not threaten but came off ironically not long before Manuel departed for them!
Robinson 5/10 – First half more like a 1/10 and second half more like an 8/10! He had an absolute shocker to begin with as he and Stevens were not close enough and kept leaving big gaps. He then made two bad headers, not communicating with the rest of the defence on either before throwing himself unnecessarily at the shot and heading into his own net! He had one good throw but then threw two out and another too far from goal before his absolute howler on the stroke of half time. He seemed to slip but then recover but then still ridiculously overplayed and lost it. He had a spell of those sort of errors/first half performances a few years ago before he improved dramatically but when he plays like that, he is a liability. His head was down and he could have been on the floor but showed huge resilience 2nd half as he came out and played so much better. Was first to the ball, showed he did not want to lose battles and then scored a scruffy but important goal. His second half was night and day from that shambles in the first half. Really pleased he could turn it around as some may have gone under.
Egan 7/10 – A steady game where the performance of the left side made the defence maybe look worse than it was. We did lose a few headers to Harwood Bellis but he won most things against a small attack and came out when he could with the ball. We had some up and down – poor defenders and some good ones. He was somewhere in the middle but they had tricky, quicker forwards or inverted wingers which meant a lot of play did not come through the middle.
Ahmedhodzic 8/10 – First half he was ok and their main threats came down the left but a few moments he maybe dithered a bit or went too long but had a few moves down the right with others. Second half he was fantastic and was able to make tackles, interceptions, blocks and key headers. Played really intelligently defensively and got into good areas but his attacking play was something else. Like having another forward. Had a number of headed chances, saved or hit the bar or wide and had the overhead effort, created the equaliser and scored our fourth. A huge threat attacking wise for a defender! He smashes a ball so hard when in the box but also so skilled too with the Cruyff turn to set it up. Eased his way back into things last few weeks but today in the second half played like the Anel we saw to start the season and look a superstar in waiting.
Osborn 7/10 – Do you know what, I have been quite critical of him this season and especially recently but he was decent today. Not amazing but he did his job. He maybe could have helped Stevens more defensively but weirdly ended up as the spare man in the middle rather than on the left. He nearly got in on a few moves first half and was able to get his foot in a few times. A couple of aimless balls forward but second half he did well and was able to win tackles, help us get going forward wise and then later when he went left back did fine here with the game won. Had a few shots/crosses in some of the attacks around the goals. He worked hard and helped us recycle and win much of the loose balls all second half.
Norwood 9/10 – Supreme performance where he dictated the game from start to finish in the middle of the field. His touch, passing and control was a joy to watch. The way he brings down the ball and can play it quickly left or right and use the inside or outside of his foot. His passing was so crisp and accurate today. He rarely wasted a ball all game and was involved in so much of our good play as he orchestrated everything. On top of his general play – so many good balls that led to attacks with Baldock being the recipient much of the time including on the 5th goal with a sublime pass – his set plays were the best they have been over a game. So many corners and free kicks that caused them problems as he put them right into the danger area and the keeper/centre backs flapped all game. A player who when he leaves, we will maybe only then realise how good he has been for this club. A fantastic footballer.
Fleck 6.5/10 – Some things that annoyed me as he was slow to react to a few things and at times I thought that the left side needed help defensively. He was not quick enough to react to stuff and I thought turned so slowly. He did some ok bits and pieces with it and some decent moves but cannot recall many things that he did that led to direct chances/crosses. However, he did help set us up on one of the second half goals with a tackle and also, he put in some really good set plays too, as he and Norwood alternated in causing problems from both sides. My worry is his lack of pace, mobility and fitness that means at times it is a struggle but he did keep pressing and working hard and playing a longer time will help him and us hopefully as he gets back to fitness.
Ndiaye 8.5/10 – Started the game quietly and maybe got crowded out a bit as much of our good play came from Norwood prompting and Baldock down the right and of course McBurnie who was involved all game. However still showed some decent bits and then scored the goal being in the right space. He then started to become more involved and linked well with McBurnie as they are really hitting off a superb partnership with clever link play, one twos and ultimately knowing where the other is going to and the understanding is coming on every week. After the break he went from decent to unplayable. He was always on the ball, his control and dribbling phenomenal and he came out of those tight areas so many times. A few times he looked so determined not to lose the ball, like the one in the corner where he ended up embarrassing Cork. He then got away from Tella and was laughing at him after which was good – I was concerned he may get booked so glad he was moved away. The way he takes the ball down and kills it and keeps it close to his body and can take players out and move us up the field is something else but he also looks dangerous too and teams do not know what to do when he runs at them. Some of the best close control/use of his body to protect the ball I have ever seen in a Blades player. The sky really is the limit with this lad and just the sort of player you want to watch when you go to football.
McBurnie 9/10 – My man of the match, just ahead of Norwood, Ndiaye, Anel and Baldock in a game of so many contenders. He was great from start to finish where as a few of those had stronger 2nd halves. He was a constant threat and won headers, held the ball up, ran the lines, linked with others – particularly Ndiaye and showed what a good footballer he is and technically how underrated he probably is. He had a few headed flicks first half and our main threat of nicking a goal before we did but then his second half he took it on even more. He won every loose ball, held it up expertly and got us up the field with good runs, dribbles and use of the ball. Scored two goals including a difficult diving head where hen had to stretch every sinew and then a cool finish. Only knock is the poor finish at 3-2 and another daft booking but he put so much into it today and gave as complete a centre forward performance as you could wish to see. What a turnaround. Gone from being someone many wanted out (including me) to now maybe the best centre forward in the league and the joint leading scorer. We need to start contract talks soon to tie him down for another few years as when fit and confident he can be a big asset as he is proving. Fair play to him – I wrote him off and wanted him gone – he has really worked hard and been a massive player and when he plays well, we are tough to stop at this level.
Subs –
Basham – Steady enough and gave us some legs and defensive protection. A few funny fouls but for the most part he linked well and was all action but sensible too.
Sharp – Not in the game that much but we had won it by that stage and he was just giving McBurnie a rest and time to get a big ovation maybe too. Gave one foul away.
Arblaster – Glad he got some time and seemed to love it being a Sheffield lad and big Blades fan and was beaming at the end. He had one touch and pass and then a run where he tried to find Sharp -maybe he should have had a shot!
Brooks – Looked lively when he came on and played sensibly as he operated down the left. Looks a rangy and athletic player.
Manager: Heckingbottom 8.5/10 – Picked a side that maybe first half struggled defensively but you could argue that Stevens/Robinson need games as they will not get back to match fitness/sharpness without them but both looked so rusty. I would have picked the same team if Doyle/McAtee were not fit and it kind of picked itself with lack of midfield options. In the end we did ok from an attacking sense although I felt the left side was an issue first half of course and we did not block this side. Second half Stevens did better and Robinson improved as we stopped the supply but basically attacked so much, they had little of the ball and could not get the winger in. Whatever he said at half time saw us go from being decent to superb and we blew them away. We exposed them from set plays but the intensity meant we just kept going at them and scored 4 goals and could have had double that. We totally dominated. I felt we have been off things in 50-50 stuff and winning the battles regardless of the football we have played/not played but won nearly everything after the break and meant we had them penned in. Good to see him get the kids on too at the end.
Burnley – Before today I had seen them a few times such as the first game at Huddersfield and some other games where they have blown teams away with the pace and fluidity of the attacking threats. Kompany has taken them from a physical and maybe quite direct side to a footballing side that can beat teams on the floor and use width. However, today the move to that also underlined the loss of toughness and physicality that you need at this level.
We of course saw some of their strengths but lots of their weaknesses too. Yes, they have some superb attacking threats but defensively looked lousy and able to be exposed as we have seen with weaker teams than us in the last week! They have let goals in (like us) against others and clearly, they have a defence that is young and can get bullied. They have two big centre backs and a tall keeper but none of these three are that imposing and the keeper especially seems to shy away from coming for the ball. This means the balls into the box and set plays will cause problems. They do lack experience having many move on from defence in that important area.
Midfield they have lots of options and experience and can get their foot in and play too and then have a range of different attackers with quick wingers/wing backs in the likes of Maatsen, Tella, Manuel, Zaroury and also the experience of Barnes/Rodriguez to supplant that. They have a deep squad and still should be too skilled for most but today the Blades ruthlessly exposed their weaknesses. Manuel was a real threat and first half ripped us apart but away from that area, not sure they did too much in terms of attacking threats – one shot off the bar apart. They led at half time but maybe were a touch fortunate and profited from errors. After the break they completely imploded as we attacked at will from both set plays/corners and also general play. We scored 4 and could have had double that. They could not get out and a team top of the league on a long unbeaten run had a bit of a rude awakening and realised they are maybe not the all-conquering side some have portrayed them. United were too powerful and too good for them and in the end the result and margin was about right really.
I still expect them to be right up there with the threats they have and depth of squad (their bench was arguably stronger than ours) but maybe if they have the injuries, we had they may not have the quality in reserve. They need to replace the keeper on that showing but the ex-Wednesday lad is as shaky from his form last season at Hillsborough. I also wonder about the experience of the centre backs. United have shown teams the blueprint of how to beat them but the attacking talents mean they will (and have much of the season – more so recently) just outscore teams. Kompany and Bellamy have had to change a lot round and do deserve credit for losing so many players and changing the style and getting them to the top. I think they will stay around this area despite today but the Blades have showed they are not maybe going to run away with things.
Opponent Man of the Match – Easy one to pick here. The winger Hedges was an absolute menace all game – well first half anyway. Tricky, quick, two footed and lots of ability. Stevens did not know what to do with him. He was a real threat. He seemed to be able to come inside, go outside, could dribble and shoot. Not really heard of him before this season and came over from Belgium when Kompany came in. He was a bit of a journeyman (not in an Axel Smeets way!) and did not establish himself at any of the top clubs but clearly has tons of ability and Kompany is using him to start some games and come off the bench. I have criticised Stevens but others struggled with him too.
Opponent Weak link – The two centre halves struggled all game with the balls into the box and with the play of McBurnie and Ndiaye in general play but the keeper was a total liability all game. Muric looked a big unit but he showed early on he could not deal with the balls into the box and flapped at everything. His handling was poor and struggled with anything coming into him but then on the floor he made numerous errors kicking it out. Looked like he would make a mistake every time the ball came near him. For such a big guy, he simply did not impose himself at all and seemed to make himself smaller.
Referee/Officials – Darren Bond. We seem to have done well with him. Today he was ok. I thought most of the contentious decisions were most the assistants. The guy on the John Street side made a few poor calls and the corner we got seemed like it should have been a goal kick but he was the wrong side and maybe Bond could have helped. He seemed to give us quite a bit of the 50-50’s on that side but then started giving them decisions. He got a lot wrong. The one on our side (South Stand) seemed to let a lot more go but then he also was involved in a few possible offsides for the 2nd and 4th and 5th! The first two he got right with both players on by some way but Baldock may have been slightly off but it was close and terrible defending. Bond was alright actually (maybe he is better now he has cut his hair and not got the daft Alice band!) and most of the bookings/free kicks were right. I recall a few pushes where he did not give one on Baldock but then gave one the other way and then McBurnie was harshly penalised 2nd half when he nicked the ball. A few other he could the advantage rule wrong when he could have gone back when we got fouled and then near the end we broke and he did not play on. That’s nit-picking as overall he let things flow and the game was allowed to the exciting contest it was. We also managed to avoid any 5th booking for Norwood, Ndiaye and Baldock who I believe were all in the danger zone but now we have gone past the cut off and need to get 10 before they are suspended, I believe?
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Quiet to start – not sure afternoon kick offs help but then as the goals went in, the noise started to go up. Burnley had a big sold out following and made a fair bit of noise as they are top and of course doing so well and at half time must have thought they were going top by some distance. 2nd half we took over and dominated and all you heard was the Blades fans and the Kop and it felt like they were almost sucking the ball in and like the old days. A fantastic atmosphere and a rabid atmosphere where Burnley just fell apart as it was wave after wave of attack. I noticed more stewards at the back of the Kop and some of my family who sit up there said they were checking and making sure others could not go into any areas without ticket checks. Hopefully we can see things settle down and we can see tickets again on the Kop as there were gaps in this area when the ground would and could have been almost full. Going back to the atmosphere, even with an early game, when United play like that and the crowd are up for it, then it really is a special place to be and a cracking ground where the crowd/team are united it seems such a force and very difficult for a visitor to play against.
soundcloud.com/tufty-club/tufty-club-reaction-22-23-burnley-home
podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tufty-club-reaction-22-23-burnley-home/id1508158343?i=1000585188037
open.spotify.com/episode/31tMmgLwHMBa43CTEN6JWG?si=11a271ca4652436b
---
The Blades made it three wins from three and are right back in touch at the top of the league as they blew away the leaders Burnley in the lunchtime Sky game at the Lane. United somehow trailed at the half despite more than matching the high-flying Clarets but Ndiaye’s goal was checked by two goals from the visitors who profited from some calamitous defending from United’s left-hand side with Jack Robinson and Enda Stevens having absolute nightmare performances. After the break it was a different story as United dominated the game and it was one way traffic as in general play and in particular set pieces, the Blades threatened almost with every attack. Goals from McBurnie (x2), Robinson and Ahmedhodzic saw United win at a canter and send a real statement with the margin of victory and performance.
Heckingbottom made two changes with Stevens, Ahmedhodzic and McBurnie in for Sharp, Basham and Khadra. Osborn was to operate in midfield. Doyle was still not fit but Basham was able to at least take his place on the bench joined by youngsters Arblaster and Brooks. Burnley on the back of two stoppage time winners would have been in confident mood after a long unbeaten run of 17 games without a defeat. They were without the suspended Brownhill and the injured Rodriguez. Tella playing a lone striker role supported by Zaroury and Manuel Benson. Burnley still had plenty of experience and quality in their starters and in reserve.
The game started in treacherous conditions as the rain lashed down onto the pitch that still had the feint lines showing from last Saturday’s Rugby League World Cup on the surface. Benson showed quick feet early to get away from Stevens in a sign of things to come from the tricky winger. United were moving it around nicely with Norwood at the heart of everything and won an early corner and long throw that saw Muric struggle with the high ball. McBurnie was winning his battles and the Blades had started the better side but Benson curled an effort wide on the break. Maatsen conceded a free kick which was swung in from Norwood and McBurnie flicked an effort that Muric and a defender somehow scrambled behind for another corner.
McBurnie had another effort over as Robinson’s throws continued to cause problems for Burnley, who used to deal with situations well but had a relatively small side and with the big keeper struggling to command, United looked a real threat from such situations. Burnley the other way were getting the ball to Benson at every opportunity. One such break saw Vitinho have a shot blocked for a corner after Robinson headed away when a fellow defender was better places to clear. From the delivery it was not cleared properly again by Robinson who compounded his double error by trying to block the MANUEL shot and only diverted it into the net past Fotheringham. It was a cruel blow after United had been the better side but was an avoidable goal from the home side.
United won a corner in response and the McBurnie had a header blocked after Fleck’s cross. Norwood was still looking to find gaps and Osborn was busy but it was the strong hold up from McBurnie that was the main threat for the Blades. Burnley nearly got a second as a corner saw Harwood Bellis with a clear header that he headed over with the marking non-existent. Manuel then cut in and shot over as Stevens struggles continued, as evidenced soon after when he was cautioned for bringing down the dangerous winger.
United were well in the game and Norwood’s clever passing saw both Osborn and Baldock get in dangerous areas before McBurnie had another effort blocked. United won a corner when the ball ricocheted off Baldock and a defender and the away side felt that it came off the United man but with the assistant unsighted and the referee some way from the action, the award went to the home side. From the delivery, McBurnie met it with a superb header back across and Ndiaye managed to contort his body to turn it home back across the keeper. The in-form striker celebrated his 9th goal of the season as United were deservedly back on level terms.
Burnley were still looking a huge threat down the right-hand side and Manuel’s trickery saw Zaroury in and his shot had to be saved from Fotheringham. Soon after Burnley almost regained the lead as the ball was not cleared and Maatsen hit a powerful shot that clipped the top of the bar and went over. United had played well but were showing real defiencies defensively and the left side continued to be an issue with Manuel destroying Stevens every time he got the ball. United were causing problems the other way and Egan had a header off target before some lovely football down the right saw Baldock’s cross come over and Stevens fired a cross shot that McBurnie flicked goalward but the ball was blocked on the line. The ball was scrambled clear and United rued the chance to lead and this was felt even more when the Blades went behind after more dreadful defending. Whilst Stevens had really struggled in a game that was touch to watch the great servant have such a torrid time, Robinson’s mistakes had showed up even more and this was the case even more so when he made a total rick just before half time.
The ball came to the experienced left sided defender and he slipped but then recovered but foolishly tried to come inside his man and MANUEL robbed him and was in on goal. The finish was delivered with ease as he curled it into the far corner and the league leaders led again. Robinson looked to both the skies and the floor in an extremely difficult afternoon for the defender. His part in both goals was crucial to the lead Burnley took into the break. It had been an excellent game so far with both teams dangerous in attack in an open contest and United would have felt unjust to be behind but defensive mistakes once again were their undoing. The Blades have now conceded 7 goals in the last three games at home and simply need to cut out such basic mistakes.
The home side did not make any changes but came out in determined mood. A cross from Robinson saw Ahmedhodzic head wide and United seemed determined to put Burnley under pressure. It was high intensity stuff and balls were coming forward and into the box at a rapid rate. It was not long before they were level. Another centre came in from the left-hand side and Ahmedhodzic headed across where MCBURNIE was waiting to beat the offside trap and sprang to dive and head home. It was a well-made and finished goal and United were back in it.
The Kop were now expectant and United were in the mood. Norwood was controlling midfield and Baldock and Ahmedhodzic were well forward and the visitors were struggling to hold the Blades back. McBurnie and Ndiaye’s link up was excellent and Cullen had to resort to foul play and was booked before a cross was pushed over by the shaky Muric on goal. The corner came in and McBurnie’s header was pushed behind as the pressure ramped up. McBurnie won another header before Ndiaye’s flicked finish was ruled offside; rightly so. Ahmedhodzic tried a spectacular overhead kick that was not far wide soon after this. It was all United at this point and Manuel’s service had been nullified as Burnley could not force any kind of play the other way and were struggling to stay in the game. Ndiaye was starting to really come to the fore and some superb hold up and running nearly led to a chance.
Gudmundsson came on for Bastien but it did not change the flow of the game. United won three corners in a row and Burnley could not get out as the balls kept coming in and Muric and his defence could not properly clear the ball. From the third delivery on 64 minutes, Fleck’s dangerous outswinger was powered by Ahmedhodzic onto the bar and Egan and Stevens tried to force the rebound home before ROBINSON somehow looped it into the far corner. It was a remarkable turnaround for the villain of the piece first half as he ran to the corner of the Kop/South Stand to dive in jubilation surrounded by his teammates. After such a difficult half, huge credit to the defender for contributing such a big moment in the game in United’s favour.
Burnley were not able to respond at all although they had one break where Osborn made a timely break before United kept coming. Ndiaye was showing the strength and body control and came out of a tight spot and came into the centre of the area and fed McBurnie who had a fantastic chance to score but his effort was too close to Muric who made the save from point blank range. From the corner, Burnley could not cope with the physical threat and Ahmedhodzic won it and superbly headed goalward but Muric who had been having a difficult afternoon, sprang up and made the flicked save. The corner came in and McBurnie met the latest pin point delivery and Muric made another save, although this was more routine but still had to push behind.
The pressure told then and the fourth goal came from the next set play. The ball came in and was not cleared again and after Osborn’s shot was blocked, the ball dropped to AHMEDHODZIC who beat the offside trap and used a clever Cryuff turn to put him facing the goal and smashed in a superb finish. The defender has shown his eye for a goal and powerful shooting this season and now has four goals for the season. Basham came on for Stevens as Osborn went to left wing back and United now had complete control of the game in a remarkable turnaround and they scored their fifth goal, and fourth in 24 minutes.
This was all about Norwood’s exquisite passing and vision as the ball round the back of the full back Maatsen saw Baldock ghost in and beat the offside trap (it was a marginal call) and he was in on goal. Muric made the block from close range but MCBURNIE was on hand to easily convert the rebound to spark more wild scenes around Bramall Lane. United were simply battering the league leaders who could not stop the rampant home side.
Ndiaye opened up his can of party tricks with some lovely footwork down the left and then the right leading to a foul from Tella and after the two players squared up as Ndiaye saw the funny side of his opponents’ frustrations. Tella and McBurnie were both booked for the pushing and shoving that ensued. Tella, Zaroury and Manuel came off for Dervisoglu, Taylor and Barnes as it seemed Kompany maybe had thrown up the white flag with just over 10 minutes to play.
Cork was booked as Norwood continued to run the show in the middle of the field and Ndiaye continued to show his wonderful range of skills complimented by the intelligent centre forward play of his partner, McBurnie who got q standing ovation when Sharp replaced him on 82 minutes.
It had been a dominating second half from United and Norwood and Ndiaye had efforts blocked before Burnley finally had an effort on goal in the second half as Harwood Bellis header was pushed away by Foderingham and Fleck cleared high into the upper tier to make sure Burnley could not convert the rebound.
Vitinho and Cullen then had efforts blocked but it all seemed quite academic at this stage. Arblaster and Brooks replaced Baldock and Fleck but United were almost in exhibition mode at this stage. Ndiaye continued to weave his magic and the two youngsters got in on the action in the final minutes of stoppage time but the extra 6 minutes were mostly played out in Burnley’s half with Basham and Ahmehodzic continuing to be well forward and the Blades fans asking for a 6th goal. It did not come but it mattered little as the side were given a standing ovation as they saluted four side of the Lane after a superb victory.
United – Wow. We certainly are being entertained recently at the Lane and it is never boring! Maybe defensively we should be concerned about how many goals/chances we give away at home but we always look like scoring and being dangerous the other way. It was such an open game again today with lots going on and it seemed like you could never take your eyes off the game at all. There were always things happening! It was odd as even though we trailed at half time, I felt we were really good for a lot of it and just the issues down the left and stupid mistakes that cost us. Burnley did look dangerous but felt we played the better stuff and actually started better, unlucky to go behind, got level and then should have scored to lead before another Robinson howler put them in front. It was so frustrating really as we had been as good, if not better. The defensive issues were still a factor and meant all the good play going the other way was wasted. It was hard to watch Enda struggle to much and with Robinson’s errors aplenty throw in, this was a huge weakness Burnley exploited with Benson superb and the best player seen down at the Lane this season.
Huge credit for United for the spirit, determination, tempo and football we played 2nd half. We came out determined to take the game to the leaders and we were superb. Yes, a lot of set plays and corners caused issues but we played some good football. It was high tempo stuff that was positive in every aspect. Norwood at the heart of it and the front two superb. So many others played well with Anel and Baldock always threats down that side too. It seemed like it was attack after attack and Burnley could not hold us back. A poor keeper and centre halves that could not cope at all – we looked like we may score very time we had it and we kept coming and coming. It was waves of attack with so many men forward and in the box. Once we got level it seemed like they could not hold us back – we got in front from a scrapy goal but then could have had 2 or 3 more as we missed more chances and the calamitous Muric actually saved something! We finally got the 4th and the 5th and then strolled to the victory in the end. It was absolutely relentless stuff from United who put in a superb performance and Burnley only had a few efforts right at the death as they simply were destroyed after the break. They may have been/are the best team in the league but the Blades showed up lots of weaknesses that others teams will have seen too and proves they may not run away with things like many felt. United showed also that if we play like that and can get the likes of Berge, RND, Bogle and Doyle back to add to the excellent displays of others we saw today, we can get back to that early season form. Today was the best we played (2nd half at least) since before the break and looked a powerful, hungry and a really good side. It was maybe not all superb football and set plays were a huge asset but we did what we needed to in completely over powering a side that used to rely on such physical strengths in these situations. A very small and weak side were just not able to cope.
5-2 in the end was about right and the stats maybe skewed on possession but the efforts 28-14 with 12 to 4 on goal and corners 10 to 6 show how much of the dangerous play we had. We had 16 shots to 2 second half and completely dominated them.
A lot will be made of the corners and we had so many efforts from these but a lot of the set plays we won came from good play – they could not live with McBurnie and Ndiaye whose link play, hard work and skill was such a threat. Norwood was excellent all game and Baldock and Anel stepped things up after the half. Even Robinson improved hugely and I just felt we on most battles after the break, after it had been quite even first half, although we were unfortunate to be behind. For the first time for a while, our intensity and desire were much better than the opponent and we won first and second balls. It was high tempo pressure but good stuff/skill too. I am annoyed a lot are just making it about them struggling with the corners/high balls as it was more that that for me. I loved the way we mixed it up and were front foot. We kept creating but did not take our foot off the pedal and even at 2-2, 3-2 and then 4-2 kept going. They had no answer.
If we play like that second half and can find that tempo and desire added to the football and cut out the stupid errors, we look a very good side at this level. We put the leaders to the sword. Yes, they had a few out but we had many more out and it is a salivating prospect to think if we can get Berge, RND, Bogle, Brewster, Lowe and Doyle back to the squad, we will look very powerful. We have had some lethargic and scrappy showings, even when we have got points, since the break but today was like Blackburn, Reading and some of the games when we looked so powerful earlier in the season. Great to see and us back to our best. We have showed in the last week, we can win different ways. It is a hard division and do not want to get carried away. You can see your side do that today and lose to a Rotherham or a Cardiff but I would hope we can back it up with two more strong results and performances and get the break right up there. We then can get some of the aforementioned players back.
For now, just want to enjoy a great performance, comeback and day where the fans and players were united, the team played well. We had excitement, goals, mistakes (both ways) and a superb comeback where United played superbly second half to beat what was/is the best side in the league and by some distance. What going to the Lane is all about.
Ratings:
Foderingham 7/10 – No chance with the opener as it deflected in and made one other decent save. He was fine apart from that as a few shots went over/wide but then the second he was badly exposed. After the break, had little to do until the end really when he made one smart save and took a diving cross. You realise the difference between him and the Burnley keeper (and Davies for us). Having a solid to good keeper who can command and not make mistakes makes a big difference.
Baldock 8/10 – First half got in some good areas going forward with good control and some ok passes across mixed with a few not for the intended target. Defensively he lost his man a bit but most of the danger came down the left. After the break felt he was inspired and was superb. He got up and down and was so energetic. He was involved in numerous attacks and then his run set up the fifth. He often does bring Norwood’s balls down really well but then he panics but today he was ok in the final bit although will feel he should have scored. His energy levels were superb and he gives everything for the shirt. Leaves everything on the pitch.
Stevens 3.5/10 – Sad to see first half. Yes, he was against a really good player but it was hard to watch a fantastic servant for us look so far off it. Maybe he is rusty and without action but he could not run, his touch was poor and he was miles off his man. The early booking did not help but it was a huge struggle. Not sure Robinson and Fleck helped much either but they knew he was the big weak link. So many attacks came down his side. He just looked a player on his last legs. He did a few ok things going forward, one good cross and shot blocked near half time but his head was down and knew it was a struggle. Did a bit better 2nd half as we attacked more and they did not threaten but came off ironically not long before Manuel departed for them!
Robinson 5/10 – First half more like a 1/10 and second half more like an 8/10! He had an absolute shocker to begin with as he and Stevens were not close enough and kept leaving big gaps. He then made two bad headers, not communicating with the rest of the defence on either before throwing himself unnecessarily at the shot and heading into his own net! He had one good throw but then threw two out and another too far from goal before his absolute howler on the stroke of half time. He seemed to slip but then recover but then still ridiculously overplayed and lost it. He had a spell of those sort of errors/first half performances a few years ago before he improved dramatically but when he plays like that, he is a liability. His head was down and he could have been on the floor but showed huge resilience 2nd half as he came out and played so much better. Was first to the ball, showed he did not want to lose battles and then scored a scruffy but important goal. His second half was night and day from that shambles in the first half. Really pleased he could turn it around as some may have gone under.
Egan 7/10 – A steady game where the performance of the left side made the defence maybe look worse than it was. We did lose a few headers to Harwood Bellis but he won most things against a small attack and came out when he could with the ball. We had some up and down – poor defenders and some good ones. He was somewhere in the middle but they had tricky, quicker forwards or inverted wingers which meant a lot of play did not come through the middle.
Ahmedhodzic 8/10 – First half he was ok and their main threats came down the left but a few moments he maybe dithered a bit or went too long but had a few moves down the right with others. Second half he was fantastic and was able to make tackles, interceptions, blocks and key headers. Played really intelligently defensively and got into good areas but his attacking play was something else. Like having another forward. Had a number of headed chances, saved or hit the bar or wide and had the overhead effort, created the equaliser and scored our fourth. A huge threat attacking wise for a defender! He smashes a ball so hard when in the box but also so skilled too with the Cruyff turn to set it up. Eased his way back into things last few weeks but today in the second half played like the Anel we saw to start the season and look a superstar in waiting.
Osborn 7/10 – Do you know what, I have been quite critical of him this season and especially recently but he was decent today. Not amazing but he did his job. He maybe could have helped Stevens more defensively but weirdly ended up as the spare man in the middle rather than on the left. He nearly got in on a few moves first half and was able to get his foot in a few times. A couple of aimless balls forward but second half he did well and was able to win tackles, help us get going forward wise and then later when he went left back did fine here with the game won. Had a few shots/crosses in some of the attacks around the goals. He worked hard and helped us recycle and win much of the loose balls all second half.
Norwood 9/10 – Supreme performance where he dictated the game from start to finish in the middle of the field. His touch, passing and control was a joy to watch. The way he brings down the ball and can play it quickly left or right and use the inside or outside of his foot. His passing was so crisp and accurate today. He rarely wasted a ball all game and was involved in so much of our good play as he orchestrated everything. On top of his general play – so many good balls that led to attacks with Baldock being the recipient much of the time including on the 5th goal with a sublime pass – his set plays were the best they have been over a game. So many corners and free kicks that caused them problems as he put them right into the danger area and the keeper/centre backs flapped all game. A player who when he leaves, we will maybe only then realise how good he has been for this club. A fantastic footballer.
Fleck 6.5/10 – Some things that annoyed me as he was slow to react to a few things and at times I thought that the left side needed help defensively. He was not quick enough to react to stuff and I thought turned so slowly. He did some ok bits and pieces with it and some decent moves but cannot recall many things that he did that led to direct chances/crosses. However, he did help set us up on one of the second half goals with a tackle and also, he put in some really good set plays too, as he and Norwood alternated in causing problems from both sides. My worry is his lack of pace, mobility and fitness that means at times it is a struggle but he did keep pressing and working hard and playing a longer time will help him and us hopefully as he gets back to fitness.
Ndiaye 8.5/10 – Started the game quietly and maybe got crowded out a bit as much of our good play came from Norwood prompting and Baldock down the right and of course McBurnie who was involved all game. However still showed some decent bits and then scored the goal being in the right space. He then started to become more involved and linked well with McBurnie as they are really hitting off a superb partnership with clever link play, one twos and ultimately knowing where the other is going to and the understanding is coming on every week. After the break he went from decent to unplayable. He was always on the ball, his control and dribbling phenomenal and he came out of those tight areas so many times. A few times he looked so determined not to lose the ball, like the one in the corner where he ended up embarrassing Cork. He then got away from Tella and was laughing at him after which was good – I was concerned he may get booked so glad he was moved away. The way he takes the ball down and kills it and keeps it close to his body and can take players out and move us up the field is something else but he also looks dangerous too and teams do not know what to do when he runs at them. Some of the best close control/use of his body to protect the ball I have ever seen in a Blades player. The sky really is the limit with this lad and just the sort of player you want to watch when you go to football.
McBurnie 9/10 – My man of the match, just ahead of Norwood, Ndiaye, Anel and Baldock in a game of so many contenders. He was great from start to finish where as a few of those had stronger 2nd halves. He was a constant threat and won headers, held the ball up, ran the lines, linked with others – particularly Ndiaye and showed what a good footballer he is and technically how underrated he probably is. He had a few headed flicks first half and our main threat of nicking a goal before we did but then his second half he took it on even more. He won every loose ball, held it up expertly and got us up the field with good runs, dribbles and use of the ball. Scored two goals including a difficult diving head where hen had to stretch every sinew and then a cool finish. Only knock is the poor finish at 3-2 and another daft booking but he put so much into it today and gave as complete a centre forward performance as you could wish to see. What a turnaround. Gone from being someone many wanted out (including me) to now maybe the best centre forward in the league and the joint leading scorer. We need to start contract talks soon to tie him down for another few years as when fit and confident he can be a big asset as he is proving. Fair play to him – I wrote him off and wanted him gone – he has really worked hard and been a massive player and when he plays well, we are tough to stop at this level.
Subs –
Basham – Steady enough and gave us some legs and defensive protection. A few funny fouls but for the most part he linked well and was all action but sensible too.
Sharp – Not in the game that much but we had won it by that stage and he was just giving McBurnie a rest and time to get a big ovation maybe too. Gave one foul away.
Arblaster – Glad he got some time and seemed to love it being a Sheffield lad and big Blades fan and was beaming at the end. He had one touch and pass and then a run where he tried to find Sharp -maybe he should have had a shot!
Brooks – Looked lively when he came on and played sensibly as he operated down the left. Looks a rangy and athletic player.
Manager: Heckingbottom 8.5/10 – Picked a side that maybe first half struggled defensively but you could argue that Stevens/Robinson need games as they will not get back to match fitness/sharpness without them but both looked so rusty. I would have picked the same team if Doyle/McAtee were not fit and it kind of picked itself with lack of midfield options. In the end we did ok from an attacking sense although I felt the left side was an issue first half of course and we did not block this side. Second half Stevens did better and Robinson improved as we stopped the supply but basically attacked so much, they had little of the ball and could not get the winger in. Whatever he said at half time saw us go from being decent to superb and we blew them away. We exposed them from set plays but the intensity meant we just kept going at them and scored 4 goals and could have had double that. We totally dominated. I felt we have been off things in 50-50 stuff and winning the battles regardless of the football we have played/not played but won nearly everything after the break and meant we had them penned in. Good to see him get the kids on too at the end.
Burnley – Before today I had seen them a few times such as the first game at Huddersfield and some other games where they have blown teams away with the pace and fluidity of the attacking threats. Kompany has taken them from a physical and maybe quite direct side to a footballing side that can beat teams on the floor and use width. However, today the move to that also underlined the loss of toughness and physicality that you need at this level.
We of course saw some of their strengths but lots of their weaknesses too. Yes, they have some superb attacking threats but defensively looked lousy and able to be exposed as we have seen with weaker teams than us in the last week! They have let goals in (like us) against others and clearly, they have a defence that is young and can get bullied. They have two big centre backs and a tall keeper but none of these three are that imposing and the keeper especially seems to shy away from coming for the ball. This means the balls into the box and set plays will cause problems. They do lack experience having many move on from defence in that important area.
Midfield they have lots of options and experience and can get their foot in and play too and then have a range of different attackers with quick wingers/wing backs in the likes of Maatsen, Tella, Manuel, Zaroury and also the experience of Barnes/Rodriguez to supplant that. They have a deep squad and still should be too skilled for most but today the Blades ruthlessly exposed their weaknesses. Manuel was a real threat and first half ripped us apart but away from that area, not sure they did too much in terms of attacking threats – one shot off the bar apart. They led at half time but maybe were a touch fortunate and profited from errors. After the break they completely imploded as we attacked at will from both set plays/corners and also general play. We scored 4 and could have had double that. They could not get out and a team top of the league on a long unbeaten run had a bit of a rude awakening and realised they are maybe not the all-conquering side some have portrayed them. United were too powerful and too good for them and in the end the result and margin was about right really.
I still expect them to be right up there with the threats they have and depth of squad (their bench was arguably stronger than ours) but maybe if they have the injuries, we had they may not have the quality in reserve. They need to replace the keeper on that showing but the ex-Wednesday lad is as shaky from his form last season at Hillsborough. I also wonder about the experience of the centre backs. United have shown teams the blueprint of how to beat them but the attacking talents mean they will (and have much of the season – more so recently) just outscore teams. Kompany and Bellamy have had to change a lot round and do deserve credit for losing so many players and changing the style and getting them to the top. I think they will stay around this area despite today but the Blades have showed they are not maybe going to run away with things.
Opponent Man of the Match – Easy one to pick here. The winger Hedges was an absolute menace all game – well first half anyway. Tricky, quick, two footed and lots of ability. Stevens did not know what to do with him. He was a real threat. He seemed to be able to come inside, go outside, could dribble and shoot. Not really heard of him before this season and came over from Belgium when Kompany came in. He was a bit of a journeyman (not in an Axel Smeets way!) and did not establish himself at any of the top clubs but clearly has tons of ability and Kompany is using him to start some games and come off the bench. I have criticised Stevens but others struggled with him too.
Opponent Weak link – The two centre halves struggled all game with the balls into the box and with the play of McBurnie and Ndiaye in general play but the keeper was a total liability all game. Muric looked a big unit but he showed early on he could not deal with the balls into the box and flapped at everything. His handling was poor and struggled with anything coming into him but then on the floor he made numerous errors kicking it out. Looked like he would make a mistake every time the ball came near him. For such a big guy, he simply did not impose himself at all and seemed to make himself smaller.
Referee/Officials – Darren Bond. We seem to have done well with him. Today he was ok. I thought most of the contentious decisions were most the assistants. The guy on the John Street side made a few poor calls and the corner we got seemed like it should have been a goal kick but he was the wrong side and maybe Bond could have helped. He seemed to give us quite a bit of the 50-50’s on that side but then started giving them decisions. He got a lot wrong. The one on our side (South Stand) seemed to let a lot more go but then he also was involved in a few possible offsides for the 2nd and 4th and 5th! The first two he got right with both players on by some way but Baldock may have been slightly off but it was close and terrible defending. Bond was alright actually (maybe he is better now he has cut his hair and not got the daft Alice band!) and most of the bookings/free kicks were right. I recall a few pushes where he did not give one on Baldock but then gave one the other way and then McBurnie was harshly penalised 2nd half when he nicked the ball. A few other he could the advantage rule wrong when he could have gone back when we got fouled and then near the end we broke and he did not play on. That’s nit-picking as overall he let things flow and the game was allowed to the exciting contest it was. We also managed to avoid any 5th booking for Norwood, Ndiaye and Baldock who I believe were all in the danger zone but now we have gone past the cut off and need to get 10 before they are suspended, I believe?
Matchday/Crowd/Coverage – Quiet to start – not sure afternoon kick offs help but then as the goals went in, the noise started to go up. Burnley had a big sold out following and made a fair bit of noise as they are top and of course doing so well and at half time must have thought they were going top by some distance. 2nd half we took over and dominated and all you heard was the Blades fans and the Kop and it felt like they were almost sucking the ball in and like the old days. A fantastic atmosphere and a rabid atmosphere where Burnley just fell apart as it was wave after wave of attack. I noticed more stewards at the back of the Kop and some of my family who sit up there said they were checking and making sure others could not go into any areas without ticket checks. Hopefully we can see things settle down and we can see tickets again on the Kop as there were gaps in this area when the ground would and could have been almost full. Going back to the atmosphere, even with an early game, when United play like that and the crowd are up for it, then it really is a special place to be and a cracking ground where the crowd/team are united it seems such a force and very difficult for a visitor to play against.
